Today we’d like to introduce you to Folami Jones.
Hi Folami, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I launched my Lifestyle coaching business in 2019 and just as it was beginning to take off, the pandemic hit and I was forced to shift my business. During the pandemic I noticed how a lot of women in my community were wearing very basic and cheap quality bonnets…and I was never able to find a quality bonnet for myself. So I was given a vision of creating a better bonnet that is lined with satin, comes in a variety of sizes and patterns while also being gender inclusive. During the winter of 2020, I made several bonnets until I finally got it down to a “science “ In April of 2021, I did my first pop-up market and the bonnets were a huge success. I knew I was on to something and I continued to make them and do pop-ups all over Atlanta…
July of 2021, I met my mentor, Ms. Naomi, who is a master seamstress and dressmaker. She also has a sewing school. She took me under her wing and I was able to expand my knowledge and skills to now having my own clothing line. I am now a fashion designer, seamstress and assistant teacher and the sewing school.
I am a Seamstress and assistant Sewing Instructor at the House of Naomi located at 4534 N Henry Blvd
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not smooth. My biggest struggle has been bookkeeping and managing my finances. Also, establishing and maintaining good business credit. I also have an autistic son who I bring along with me everywhere, because I struggle to find quality child care for him while I run my business.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in luxury loungewear. My goal was and continues to be the destigmatize the bashing of women of color for wearing bonnets. I wanted to create something that was both functional and fashionable, so if they wanted to wear the bonnet in public, at least it was more representative of the culture and creativity of Black Women. I’m most proud of how far I’ve come with my sewing skills and creating something unique and different. I stay in my lane and my goal is to always provide quality products.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love that We support one another. I don’t like seeing Us out in public in basic bonnets.
Pricing:
- $10
- $350
Contact Info:
- Website: www.atthebeginningoftheday.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/notyourbasic_brand
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/notyourbasicbrand
Image Credits
Professional photographer IG @thecamkilla
